Biotechnology Market News

Professor urges Wales to embrace GM crops - WalesOnline

Professor urges Wales to embrace GM crops WalesOnline, United Kingdom - 1 hour ago WALES was urged yesterday to put aside its a prejudicea against genetically modified food as world food and fuel prices increase. A respected academic warned ...

Life after Cancer - KSPR

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NaturalNano Confirms Use of Naturally Occurring Nano Materials - Nanotechnology and Development News

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Independent Analyses of the SEAS, SHARP and IMPROVE-IT Studies of Ezetimibe

LONDON, July 21 /PRNewswire/ -- The University of Oxford Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU) proposed that the hypothesis-generating results of the SEAS trial of ezetimibe should be tested by reviewing the combined cancer results from the SHARP and IMPROVE-IT trials of ezetimibe, and reporting on the overall findings to the relevant regulatory authorities, independently of the drug manufacturers.

The two hypothesis-testing trials (SHARP and IMPROVE-IT) contain about four times as many cancers as the SEAS trial. They do not confirm the hypothesis raised by the SEAS trial that treatment increases the overall risk of developing cancer. In addition, there is no increase with time in the relative risk (active vs placebo) suggested by the cancer incidence and mortality from all 3 trials together (or just from the pair of hypothesis-testing trials). Consequently, the SEAS, SHARP and IMPROVE-IT trials do not provide credible evidence of any adverse effect on cancer.

Allocation to 5 years of substantial LDL-cholesterol lowering by a statin has been shown previously to have no apparent effect on cancer. The Cholesterol Treatment Trialists' collaboration has published results (Lancet 2005;366: 1267-78) based on 90,000 patients randomised evenly between statin and control. Based on 5530 patients with cancer onset after randomisation, the statin vs control relative risk was 0.997 (with 95% confidence interval 0.95-1.05; not significant). Of these patients, 2163 died of their cancer during the scheduled follow-up period; the relative risk for cancer death was 1.01 (with 95% confidence interval 0.91-1.12; not significant).

In the final results from the SEAS trial, there appears to be a small increase in total cancer incidence in the group allocated ezetimibe statin, but this is based on only 102 vs 67 cancer cases (including 39 vs 23 fatal cases) and there is no significant increase in any particular type of cancer.

Two other large trials of ezetimibe statin are still in progress: (i) SHARP (ezetimibe simvastatin vs placebo in 9,000 patients; recruitment completed, but treatment and follow-up continuing) and (ii) IMPROVE-IT (ezetimibe simvastatin vs placebo simvastatin in 11,000 patients; recruitment continues towards an eventual target of 18,000 patients). Together, they have already accumulated about four times as many cancers as SEAS (see table). If treatment really did increase total cancer by 50% then this would have been clearly apparent in the hypothesis testing SHARP & IMPROVE-IT trials. Instead, there was no evidence of any increase in cancer (see table).

Cancer events Active Control Hypothesis generator: SEAS 102 67 Hypothesis test: SHARP & IMPROVE-IT* 313 326 * 216 active vs 254 control non-fatal cases and 97 vs 72 fatal cases.

If there were a real adverse effect on cancer incidence or cancer mortality then previous experience with the epidemiology of cancer (ie, with other causes of the disease in humans) strongly suggests that the relative risk (active versus control) should grow bigger with time, but it does not, whether the hypothesis-testing trials are considered separately or all 3 trials are considered together.

Note: The University of Oxford Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU) has decades of experience in cancer epidemiology, in vascular and other trials, and in collaborative meta-analyses of trials. Although CTSU is conducting the SHARP trial, it is doing so independently of the source of funding, and has a policy of not accepting honoraria or consultancy fees. This report to regulatory authorities on the analyses of SEAS, SHARP and IMPROVE-IT was initiated, conducted and interpreted by the CTSU independently of any source of funding.

For more information, please, refer to the press release issued by the SEAS investigators today.

Contact: Andrew Trehearne, CTSU, 44(0)1865-743960, 44(0)789-404-2600

Co-directors: Rory Collins FMed Sci FRCP BHF Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology Sir Richard Peto FRS Hon FRCP Professor of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology

Jane Colin Jillian John Cairns Zhengming Michael Armitage Baigent FFPH Boreham FRS Chen MBBS Clarke DPhil FFPH FRCP FRCP PhD DPhil Emeritus Professor of Reader in Professor of Senior Professor Professor of Clinical Clinical Epidemiology Research of Cancer Epidemiology Epidemiology Epidemiology Fellow Robert Sarah Darby Christina Alison Martin Christine Clarke FFPH PhD Davies Halliday Landray PhD Marsden PhD FRCP BMBCh MSc FRCS MRCP Professor of Unit Reader in Medical Senior Consultant Reader in Administra- Epidemiology Statistics Research in Vascular Epidemiology tor Fellow Surgery Sarah Parish Max Parkin Susan David Alan Young Sarah Clark, DPhil MD Richards Simpson OBE DPhil Karen DPhil Hon MFPH Kourellias & Senior Honorary Head of Research Senior Senior Director, Systems Martin Fellow Research Research IATH Development Radley: Lab Fellow Fellow Management

;

CONTACT: Contact: Andrew Trehearne, CTSU, 44(0)1865-743960,
44(0)789-404-2600

Roche seeks to buy all of Genentech - Contra Costa Times

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Exelixis shares rise as late-stage study begins - Forbes

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Inion Receives 510(k) Marketing Clearance to Sell its Biodegradable Graft Containment Systems in the USA for Spinal Fusion Procedures

TAMPERE, Finland and GUILDFORD, England, July 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Inion , the company focused on the development and commercialisation of novel biodegradable medical implants, today announces it has received 510(k) marketing clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its biodegradable graft containment systems for spinal fusion procedures.

The US marketing clearance has been received for the Inion S-1(TM) Anterior Cervical Fusion System, the Inion S-1(TM) double-level plate and the Inion S-2(TM) Anterior Thoraco-Lumbar Fusion System. These systems consist of biodegradable plates and screws, which are designed for bone graft containment in spinal fusion procedures. Such procedures are carried out as a treatment for a range of spinal conditions including ruptures and displacement of inter-vertebral discs. Inion's S-1(TM) and Inion S-2(TM) graft containment systems include implants intended for use along the entire length of the spine in conjunction with traditional rigid fixation.

These new graft containment systems also incorporate a radiographic marker to the edges of the plates and to the tips of screws. These markers enable surgeons to view the position of the implants in post-operative x-ray without interfering with their assessment of the site of surgery and its healing progress.

More than 183,000 cervical plating procedures (Ref. 1) and more than 10,000 anterior thoraco-lumbar plating procedures (Ref. 2) were performed in 2006 in the USA. The US market for these procedures was worth approximately EUR318 million and EUR32 million, respectively. The number of spinal plating procedures has since grown at an annual rate of approximately 30%.

Inion's biodegradable implants offer significant clinical benefits over traditional metal materials, primarily in that they slowly and completely degrade over time into carbon dioxide and water, which are absorbed into the body.

The Inion S-1(TM) and Inion S-2(TM) graft containment systems received CE Mark marketing clearance in Europe in August 2007 and September 2007, respectively.

Chris Lee, Inion's CEO, said: "The US marketing clearance for our biodegradable spine products is great news. We are already seeing increased uptake of this important product line in Europe where awareness and acceptance of the clinical benefits of biodegradable medical implants is rapidly growing among surgeons, who are adopting this technology into their practice. Our aim now is to push these new biodegradable products aggressively into the US spine market where we believe it will make an attractive alternative to traditional metal plates and a strong driver of value for the Company."

References

1. Spinemarket, Inc: US spinal implant market: Cervical plate analysis. 2007

2. Spinemarket, Inc: US spinal implant market: Anterior lumbar plating analysis. 2007

About Inion (http://www.inion.com/)

Inion Oy is a medical devices company focused on the development and successful commercialisation of innovative and unique biodegradable and bioactive surgical implants in selected high value orthopaedic market segments.

Inion's core expertise and technology lies in the design and manufacture of innovative biodegradable plates, screws, pins and membranes, which are used to enhance the healing of bone or soft tissue injuries to the skeleton, such as those caused by trauma or by reconstructive surgery. Inion implants are made from its proprietary Inion Optima(TM) family of biomaterials, with properties tailored for specific surgical applications, in terms of strength, flexibility and rate of degradation Inion is also focused on developing proprietary new bioactive and biodegradable biomaterials that promote bone healing and accelerate patient rehabilitation.

Inion was incorporated in early 2000 and listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority in December 2004 (ticker: IIN). The Company has offices in the UK and USA, and its head office, R&D and production facilities are in Tampere, Finland.

This announcement includes "forward-looking statements" which include all statements other than statements of historical facts, including, without limitation, those regarding the Group's financial position, business strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including development plans and objectives relating to the Group's products), and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include forward-looking terminology such as the words "targets", "believes", "estimates", "expects", "aims", "intends", "will", "can", "may", "anticipates", "would", "should", "could" or similar expressions or the negative thereof. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors beyond the Group's control that could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Group to be materially different from future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding the Group's present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Group will operate in the future. Among the important factors that could cause the Group's actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include those relating to Inion's funding requirements, regulatory approvals, reliance on third parties, intellectual property, key personnel and other factors. These forward-looking statements speak only as at the date of this announcement. The Group expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement to reflect any change in the Group's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based. As a result of these factors, prospective investors are cautioned not to rely on any forward-looking statement.

For further information, please contact: Inion Oy Tel: 44(0)1483-685390 Chris Lee, Chief Executive Officer Julien Cotta, Chief Financial Officer Citigate Dewe Rogerson Tel: 44(0)207-638-9571 Mark Swallow / David Dible

Inion Oy

CONTACT: For further information, please contact: Inion Oy: Chris Lee,
Chief Executive Officer, Julien Cotta, Chief Financial Officer, Tel:
44(0)1483-685390; Citigate Dewe Rogerson: Mark Swallow / David Dible, Tel:
44(0)207-638-9571

Comprehensive Care International and SHI Consulting Announce Partnership for Effective Integration of Research Into Clinical Planning and Design

TORONTO, July 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Comprehensive Care International (CCI) and SHI Consulting Inc. (SHI) outlined their vision to create a sustainable operational advantage for hospitals worldwide. Through a combined CCI/SHI partnership, clients can access a complete range of resources in clinical, functional and operational plans, human resources, and information technology, as well as services in research strategy, the implementation of research programs, and the development of research infrastructure.

"This partnership will allow us to provide a much broader range of services to our clients," says Katherine Jones, president and CEO of CCI. "The coupling of our innovative clinical programming with SHI's focus on helping organizations realize success in health research creates a unique value proposition: together, we will help hospitals worldwide build international reputations for medical excellence and a competitive edge in knowledge creation, translation and commercialization."

"Ultimately our goal is to accelerate the speed at which science leads to enhanced clinical capabilities and better patient outcomes," adds Borys Chabursky, president of SHI. "In partnership with CCI, we aim to work with healthcare organizations to develop context-specific health research enterprises that build a pervasive culture of innovation and ensure that innovative approaches to medicine are an integral part of the patient experience."

The expanded service offering will be available to all international markets and will be particularly relevant in regions such as the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, where changing demographics and rapid economic growth have created a demand for heightened access to advanced clinical services that reflect the unique characteristics of local populations.

In addition to offering best-in-class expertise in research and clinical programming, the new CCI/SHI team will work with thought leaders in healthcare practice, administration and research in order to publish and share new ideas in healthcare design and delivery.

For more information on the expanded service offering contact: Brian Donaldson, vice president of sales and marketing, Comprehensive Care International, at: bdonaldson@ccihealth.com; or Dr. Ryan Wiley, managing director of SHI Consulting, at: rwiley@shiconsulting.com.

ABOUT CCI

Comprehensive Care International is an international project management firm committed to providing value through comprehensive healthcare solutions. Our mission "to transform clients' healthcare visions into sustainable solutions" is backed by our corporate vision "to become a driving force, partnering with our clients to create excellence in healthcare delivery." Our success is defined by on-time client service delivery and a focus on measurable results. Available services include: feasibility studies, business case development, site selection, functional programming, facility design, furniture and equipment planning, strategic operating plans, hospital organizational structures and management systems, governance/best practices, human resource processes, recruitment strategies, development of international hospital partnerships, clinical program design and quality assurance models, staff education and training, and transition planning. http://www.ccihealth.com

ABOUT SHI

SHI Consulting Inc. is a global, strategy-through-implementation consultancy specializing in the life sciences. We offer clients in industry, government, academia and the not-for-profit sector implementation-focused solutions that couple scientific expertise with a keen understanding of the global life sciences marketplace. Our Focus on the innovation-driven life sciences and healthcare sectors demands scientific expertise and business acumen: SHI is unique in its ability to deliver perspectives that effectively merge scientific and technical excellence with the economic and health drivers of life sciences innovation. Our Services span the entire life sciences innovation chain, from discovery to commercialization to health and economic impact. Our Unique Value lies in our insight into how the interconnectedness between public and private sectors can anchor a balanced approach to life sciences innovation. We have proven expertise in facilitating and managing partnerships that harness the complementary strengths of both public and private spheres, enable globally competitive life sciences research, spread risk, and derive social and economic benefits for all parties. http://www.shiconsulting.com

Contact: Laura Macdonald Director of Marketing and Communications Comprehensive Care International (CCI) 1-416-531-5950 lmacdonald@ccihealth.com

Comprehensive Care International (CCI)

Contact: Laura Macdonald, Director of Marketing and Communications, Comprehensive Care International (CCI), 1-416-531-5950, lmacdonald@ccihealth.com

Ceres Nanosciences to Develop Nanotechnology Products for Health ... - Nanowerk LLC

Ceres Nanosciences to Develop Nanotechnology Products for Health ... Nanowerk LLC, HI - 20 minutes ago Other applications are under discussion with leading companies in the biotechnology industry, he adds, including the detection of sepsis in hospital ...

Ikaria's INOflo (Nitric Oxide) for Inhalation Approved in Japan Ikaria to Market and Distribute INOflo via Partnership with Air Water Incorporated and Sumitomo Seika Chemicals

CLINTON, N.J., July 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Ikaria Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiary INO Therapeutics LLC, announced today that Japan's Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) has approved INOflo(R) (nitric oxide) for inhalation for improvement of hypoxic respiratory failure (HRF) with concurrent pulmonary hypertension in neonates. INOflo (brand name INOmax(R) in the United States) has been shown to improve oxygenation and reduce the need for ECMO, a highly invasive cardiopulmonary bypass procedure.

INOflo is the first pharmaceutical gas approved in Japan and has been designated as an orphan drug by Japan's MHLW, granting a statutory exclusivity period of 10 years, during which time generic versions of INOflo will not be approved.

INOflo will be imported and distributed through a partnership with Air Water Incorporated and Sumitomo Seika Chemicals.

Daniel Tasse, President & CEO of Ikaria(R), remarked, "Approval of INOflo in Japan is a significant milestone for Ikaria and a further validation of the benefits of our therapy. Currently, INOmax remains the only pharmaceutical vasodilator approved for the treatment of persistent pulmonary hypertension in newborns and is used in thousands of neonates with hypoxic respiratory failure each year."

Mr. Tasse continued, "Our partnership with Air Water Incorporated and Sumitomo Seika Chemicals will enable us to quickly bring INOflo to the Japanese market. Boasting one of the most highly regarded healthcare systems in the world, Japan will provide Ikaria with an important avenue for incremental growth and a significant foothold as we continue to expand our portfolio of critical care products outside the US."

About INOmax

INOmax(R), in conjunction with ventilatory support and other appropriate agents, is used for the treatment of term and near-term (>34 weeks) neonates with hypoxic respiratory failure associated with clinical or echocardiographic evidence of pulmonary hypertension.

INOmax is designed to help critically ill newborns breathe more effectively by dilating the blood vessels of the lungs, which improves oxygen uptake and maximizes oxygen supply to the tissues of the body. INOmax therapy has been shown to reduce the need for a highly invasive surgical procedure known as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO. During ECMO, an infant's blood is mechanically oxygenated by connecting the baby to a heart-lung machine.

INOmax should not be used in the treatment of neonates known to be dependent on right-to-left shunting of blood. Abrupt discontinuation of INOmax may lead to a worsening condition. Methemoglobinemia is a dose-dependent side effect of inhaled nitric oxide therapy. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) forms rapidly in gas mixtures containing nitric oxide and oxygen, and therefore may cause airway inflammation and damage. Methemoglobin, NO2, and FiO2 should be monitored during nitric oxide administration.

INOflo(R) is a registered trademark in Japan, in the name of AGA Aktiegolag.

For more information on INOmax, please visit http://www.inomax.com/. About Ikaria Holdings, Inc.

Ikaria Holdings, Inc. is a fully integrated biotherapeutics company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative pharmaceutical and biological products and drug/device combinations for the critically ill in the hospital and ICU setting. The company's product, INOmax(R) (nitric oxide) for inhalation, is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of hypoxic respiratory failure in term and near-term newborns. The drug also is approved by regulatory authorities and used in Canada, Europe, Australia and Latin America. In addition to the ongoing clinical development as well as the marketing and selling of its INOmax product, Ikaria is engaged in a number of Phase 2 trials with Covox(R) (carbon monoxide) for inhalation and Phase 1 trials with hydrogen sulfide (H2S) for various critical care indications. Ikaria has a staff of approximately 380 people and is headquartered in Clinton, NJ, with research facilities in Seattle, WA and Madison, WI and manufacturing in Port Allen, LA. For more information on Ikaria, please visit http://www.ikaria.com/.

CONTACTS Matthew Bennett Jason Rando Ikaria The Ruth Group (908) 238-6673 (646) 536-7025 matthew.bennett@ikaria.com jrando@theruthgroup.com

Ikaria Holdings, Inc.

CONTACT: Matthew Bennett, Ikaria, 1-908-238-6673,
matthew.bennett@ikaria.com; Jason Rando, The Ruth Group, 1-646-536-7025,
jrando@theruthgroup.com, for Ikaria

Web site: http://www.ikaria.com/
http://www.inomax.com/

Case Western Reserve's new medical researchers pump millions into ... - The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com

Case Western Reserve's new medical researchers pump millions into ... The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com, OH - Jul 20, 2008 Hired: 2005 as professor and director of the Case Center for Proteomics. Area of research: Uncovering the structure and function of proteins so scientists ...

GeoPharma Adds India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South Korea as New Distribution Channels for Mucotrol(TM)

LARGO, Fla., July 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GeoPharma, Inc. (the "Company") announced today the expansion of the distribution agreement between the Company and Cura Pharmaceutical Co. (Cura). The original agreement signed between Cura and GeoPharma provided Cura the exclusive U.S. distribution rights of GeoPharma's patented oral Mucotrol(TM) wafer, which had received FDA approval as a medical device. The recent extension of the primary agreement allows for additional partners to be secured, proliferating the acceptance of Mucotrol(TM) in other regions of the world previously unexplored. The new aspect of the agreement embraces two new regional partners and allows for the dissemination of Mucotrol(TM) in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and South Korea.

Mucotrol(TM) is a concentrated oral gel wafer that was designed as a method of pain management for patients suffering from Oral Mucositis. Oral Mucositis is the formation of lesions on the inside of a patient's mouth which commonly present themselves after undergoing chemotherapy treatments for cancer. The Mucotrol(TM) wafer forms a soothing coating on the inside of the patient's mouth. The coating that is created dramatically reduces the sensitivity of these mouth lesions, improving the general comfort of the patient and making activities such as eating much more tolerable.

Commenting on the amendment, GeoPharma CEO Mihir K. Taneja stated, "The expansion of the Cura agreement to include additional worldwide partners is another example of the continued development of GeoPharma's business plan. We are pleased that the Mucotrol(TM) product is in higher demand and expanding its customer base."

"The opportunity to increase the scope of the Mucotrol agreement was beneficial to all involved," said Cura Pharmaceutical President Fabio Lanzieri. "GeoPharma garners very attractive avenues of additional distribution, while Cura enhances its global presence aligning itself with key strategic partners in some of the fastest growing regions of the world. It would not surprise me at all to see additional business being conducted by GeoPharma and Cura in other product lines throughout the region as a result of this initial collaboration."

ABOUT CURA PHARMACEUTICAL, CO.:

Cura Pharmaceutical Co., Inc is a New Jersey based pharmaceutical marketing company that focuses on select niche markets through the offering of specialty products and services. Cura's strategy is to provide products to the American Healthcare Practitioner and to create partnerships worldwide that satisfy a distinct unmet medical need and are cost effective. These products often are not readily accessible and provide enhancements to existing treatments. Cura's management team has extensive experience in the industry, with over 100 years of combined pharmaceutical experience.

ABOUT GEOPHARMA, INC.:

GeoPharma, Inc. is a rapidly growing Bio/Pharma company with a diversified business model participating in 3 main market segments: Specialty Pharma, Manufacturing, and Distribution. The Specialty Pharma division specializes in the formulation of generic drugs for human and veterinary usage and the development of medical devices used by oncologists and other medical professionals. The Manufacturing and Distribution divisions manufacture, package, and distribute generic drugs, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and functional food products for companies worldwide.

GeoPharma's growth strategy is to capitalize on its research and manufacturing expertise to develop medical devices and high margin generic drug products for niche markets with high barriers to entry. GeoPharma's competitive advantage in these areas is in its ability to navigate the challenges that such market pursuits present effectively.

Currently GeoPharma employs over 300 people and operates facilities in Florida, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Rhode Island, and Texas utilizing over 330,000 sq. ft. of office, warehouse, manufacturing and laboratory facilities.

For further information visit the "For Investors" section of the GeoPharma website at http://www.geopharmainc.com/.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release may contain statements, which constitute forward- looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those regarding the company and its subsidiaries' expectations, intentions, strategies and beliefs pertaining to future performance. All statements contained herein are based upon information available to the company's management as of the date hereof, and actual results may vary based upon future events, both within and without management's control. Important factors that could cause such differences are described in the company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

GeoPharma, Inc.

CONTACT: Alexander Nachman, Director of Investor and Media Relations,
GeoPharma, Inc., 1-727-471-0850, ext. 243, IR@GeoPharmainc.com

Web site: http://www.geopharmainc.com/

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Roche may need to raise bid for Genentech: analysts - Reuters

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GeneNews launches world's first blood test for colorectal cancer screening

TORONTO, July 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- GeneNews Limited (TSX: GEN), a company focused on developing blood-based biomarker tests for the early detection of diseases and personalized health management, today announced the launch of ColonSentry(TM), the world's first blood-based molecular test for colorectal cancer screening. ColonSentry(TM) is a blood test that assesses a patient's current risk of having colorectal cancer, identifying those in the asymptomatic general population with increased risk who might benefit from further more invasive diagnostic testing such as colonoscopy. This risk stratification approach allows for a more targeted application of colonoscopy which could increase the detection rate of colorectal cancer by as much as 3 fold in an asymptomatic general population. The test requires a simple blood sample. The mRNA expression of a panel of seven specific genes is measured at the molecular level by quantitative RT-PCR which results in an assessment of the patient's current risk. ColonSentry will be performed at the Company's laboratory facilities in Richmond Hill, Canada and is the first in a series of blood-based molecular tests based on the company's platform technology, the award-winning Sentinel Principle(TM).

"Each year thousands of Canadians die from colorectal cancer, the number two cause of death among all cancers in both men and women. This is a tragedy because colorectal cancer is a preventable and curable disease, but only when detected early," said Dr. Lawrence Cohen, Director of Gastroenterology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto. "The launch of ColonSentry(TM) represents a leap forward in the way we currently screen for colorectal cancer. The test determines whether patients have an increased risk of having colorectal cancer. By using this risk assessment tool as the first step in a regular screening program, information obtained with ColonSentry(TM) will result in better decision making by doctors and their patients regarding next steps in the colorectal cancer screening process and ultimately help identify the presence of this cancer in patients at a curable stage."

"More than 21,500 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year and most of them will not have exhibited any symptoms. The most effective method for prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer is through widespread screening of individuals," said Barry D. Stein, President of the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada. "A patient-friendly blood test like ColonSentry(TM) is welcomed and can certainly contribute to increased compliance with screening programs. This will facilitate earlier detection and treatment of the disease, resulting in improved outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer."

"Ideally, colorectal cancer screening should proceed in a programmatic fashion that begins with risk stratification based on the results from an initial test and then continues with proper follow up based on findings," said Dr. Bernard Levin, an internationally recognized expert in colorectal cancer screening and Chair of the Company's Colorectal Cancer Clinical Advisory Board. "As the initial test, the convenience of a blood test to assess current risk could encourage more individuals to undergo screening, leading to earlier detection of colorectal cancer thereby reducing suffering and death."

"More than 1.5 million people in the GTA meet the eligibility guidelines for colorectal cancer screening, making this an ideal location for the initial launch of ColonSentry(TM). We are building our commercial organization and look forward to subsequent planned launches of ColonSentry(TM) in Asia, the United States and Europe," said Dr. Heiner Dreismann, interim CEO and Lead Director of GeneNews. "Achieving this most significant milestone well on target reflects the deep commitment of the entire GeneNews staff and the timely delivery of the first in our pipeline of innovative tests to provide actionable information for more personalized health management."

The ColonSentry(TM) test can be ordered by physicians throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Additional information on the ColonSentry(TM) test can be found at http://www.colonsentry.com/ or by calling 1-877-GENENEWS (436-3639).

About GeneNews --------------

GeneNews is focused on the application of functional genomics to enable early diagnosis and personalized therapeutic intervention based on disease-specific biomarkers. The Company has developed a novel approach, the Sentinel Principle(TM), to detect and stage virtually any disease or medical condition from a simple blood sample. GeneNews is currently applying the Sentinel Principle(TM) in major areas with unmet clinical needs such as cancer, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders. For more information on GeneNews, visit http://www.genenews.com/.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual events could differ materially from those projected herein. Investors should consult the Company's ongoing quarterly filings and annual reports for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to these forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

GeneNews Limited

CONTACT: James Smith, (416) 815-0070 x 229, jsmith@equicomgroup.com

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Brave Charlotte celebrates fifth birthday against all odds - GazetteLive

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GeneNews Launches World's First Blood Test for Colorectal Cancer Screening

TORONTO, July 21 /PRNewswire/ -- GeneNews Limited (TSX: GEN), a company focused on developing blood-based biomarker tests for the early detection of diseases and personalized health management, today announced the launch of ColonSentry(TM), the world's first blood-based molecular test for colorectal cancer screening. ColonSentry(TM) is a blood test that assesses a patient's current risk of having colorectal cancer, identifying those in the asymptomatic general population with increased risk who might benefit from further more invasive diagnostic testing such as colonoscopy. This risk stratification approach allows for a more targeted application of colonoscopy which could increase the detection rate of colorectal cancer by as much as 3 fold in an asymptomatic general population. The test requires a simple blood sample. The mRNA expression of a panel of seven specific genes is measured at the molecular level by quantitative RT-PCR which results in an assessment of the patient's current risk. ColonSentry will be performed at the Company's laboratory facilities in Richmond Hill, Canada and is the first in a series of blood-based molecular tests based on the company's platform technology, the award-winning Sentinel Principle(TM).

"Each year thousands of Canadians die from colorectal cancer, the number two cause of death among all cancers in both men and women. This is a tragedy because colorectal cancer is a preventable and curable disease, but only when detected early," said Dr. Lawrence Cohen, Director of Gastroenterology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto. "The launch of ColonSentry(TM) represents a leap forward in the way we currently screen for colorectal cancer. The test determines whether patients have an increased risk of having colorectal cancer. By using this risk assessment tool as the first step in a regular screening program, information obtained with ColonSentry(TM) will result in better decision making by doctors and their patients regarding next steps in the colorectal cancer screening process and ultimately help identify the presence of this cancer in patients at a curable stage."

"More than 21,500 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer this year and most of them will not have exhibited any symptoms. The most effective method for prevention and early detection of colorectal cancer is through widespread screening of individuals," said Barry D. Stein, President of the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada. "A patient-friendly blood test like ColonSentry(TM) is welcomed and can certainly contribute to increased compliance with screening programs. This will facilitate earlier detection and treatment of the disease, resulting in improved outcomes for patients with colorectal cancer."

"Ideally, colorectal cancer screening should proceed in a programmatic fashion that begins with risk stratification based on the results from an initial test and then continues with proper follow up based on findings," said Dr. Bernard Levin, an internationally recognized expert in colorectal cancer screening and Chair of the Company's Colorectal Cancer Clinical Advisory Board. "As the initial test, the convenience of a blood test to assess current risk could encourage more individuals to undergo screening, leading to earlier detection of colorectal cancer thereby reducing suffering and death."

"More than 1.5 million people in the GTA meet the eligibility guidelines for colorectal cancer screening, making this an ideal location for the initial launch of ColonSentry(TM). We are building our commercial organization and look forward to subsequent planned launches of ColonSentry(TM) in Asia, the United States and Europe," said Dr. Heiner Dreismann, interim CEO and Lead Director of GeneNews. "Achieving this most significant milestone well on target reflects the deep commitment of the entire GeneNews staff and the timely delivery of the first in our pipeline of innovative tests to provide actionable information for more personalized health management." The ColonSentry(TM) test can be ordered by physicians throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Additional information on the ColonSentry(TM) test can be found at http://www.colonsentry.com or by calling 1-877-GENENEWS (436-3639).

About GeneNews

GeneNews is focused on the application of functional genomics to enable early diagnosis and personalized therapeutic intervention based on disease-specific biomarkers. The Company has developed a novel approach, the Sentinel Principle(TM), to detect and stage virtually any disease or medical condition from a simple blood sample. GeneNews is currently applying the Sentinel Principle(TM) in major areas with unmet clinical needs such as cancer, arthritis, cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders. For more information on GeneNews, visit http;//www.genenews.com.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual events could differ materially from those projected herein. Investors should consult the Company's ongoing quarterly filings and annual reports for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to these forward-looking statements. The reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For further information: James Smith, 1-416-815-0070 x 229, jsmith@equicomgroup.com

GeneNews Limited

For further information: James Smith, 1-416-815-0070 x 229, jsmith@equicomgroup.com

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Update on the SEAS Study

LONDON, July 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Professor Terje Pedersen (Ulleval University Hospital, Oslo, Norway), lead investigator for the Simvastatin and Ezetimibe in Aortic Stenosis (SEAS) Study, will provide an update on the study on Monday the 21st July.

Also present in London will be Sir Richard Peto (Professor of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology and Co-director of the Clinical Trials Service Unit, University of Oxford) Professor Rory Collins (BHF Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of Oxford and Co-director of the Clinical Trials Service Unit) and Professor Ingar Holme, PhD, (Professor of Biostatistics, University of Oslo and Ulleval University Hospital, Oslo, Norway), SEAS steering committee statistician.

The London panel will be joined by Professor Eugene Braunwald (Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School) who will participate via Web link from Boston and Professor Robert M Califf (Professor of Medicine, Head of Duke Clinical Research, Duke University) available via phone link.

You are invited to join us at: The Hilton London Metropole Hotel, King Suite (3rd Floor, West Wing), 225 Edgware Road, London W2 1JU When: 21st July at 5.30pm for a 6pm start, BST OR The press conference will be Webcast live, and archived, available at: http://clients.mediaondemand.net/pedersen/live.asx http://clients.mediaondemand.net/pedersen/archive.asx

Additionally the press conference can be accessed via satellite and full coordinates for USA and Europe will be issued by 1pm BST.

There will be a Q&A session after the press announcement. The Q&A session is only available for members of the media.

;

CONTACT: For further information please call: The SEAS Press Office on
44-207-413-3423

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